The John V. Winkle Foundation was created to provide scholarships to graduates of high schools located within the Community Foundation’s service area. Graduates of Hinckley‑Big Rock High School and home‑schooled students also are eligible for these awards if they reside with the Community Foundation’s service area.
John V. Winkle (1938-2010) of Aurora (formerly of Batavia, Illinois and Youngstown, Ohio) was born in Youngstown, Ohio.
He was a graduate of Ursuline High School and Youngstown University.
In 1969, Mr. Winkle moved to Illinois where he joined and later would acquire the Weldstar Company in Aurora.
He touched many lives through his philanthropic endeavors and in his service to various organizations, including The Association for Individual Development, Big Brothers/Big Sisters and TriCity Family Services. He also was a member of Annunciation Catholic Church.
Scholarships from his foundation will continue his belief in the potential of every person and his sense of commitment to one’s community.
Honesty, integrity and compassion were the core values upon which he built his personal and professional life.
“Wink” was survived by his wife Carol of fifty years, his seven children and their families, including his biggest fans – his twenty-five grandchildren.
